"Niger's Aid at Stake: Biden Officials Weigh 'Coup' Determination Amid Crisis"

The Biden administration is facing a dilemma over whether to officially label the military takeover in Niger as a coup, which would trigger a cutoff of U.S. assistance to the country. While many experts argue that the events in Niger clearly constitute a coup, U.S. officials are concerned that such a determination could reduce America's leverage over Niger's future, jeopardize military operations against militants in the region, invite Russian influence, and worsen humanitarian suffering. The Biden administration has already paused most U.S. aid to Niger and is evaluating its democratic and security goals for the country. A formal determination would originate in the State Department's legal office.